Some 25% of the vins clairs that compose Ployez-Jacquemart's NV Extra-Brut Passion were barrel fermented, and it's a richer, more vinous non-vintage blend that's aged—for four or five years—sur pointes rather than sur lattes to prevent excess. Offering up an inviting bouquet of lemon, orange oil, crisp yellow orchard fruit, toasted nuts and honeycomb, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and intense, with a racy spine of acidity, fine concentration at the core, and a penetrating, sapid finish. - William Kelley

Lithe and lacy, with bright acidity well-meshed with notes of white raspberry and cherry fruit, biscuit and Marcona almond. This is a fine aperitif but also offers a bit more richness and focus through the finish than many in the category, displaying hints of crystalized honey and preserved lemon peel. Disgorged October 2024. Drink now. - AN